Paige Bueckers is expected to leave the UConn program to join the pros and declare for the WNBA draft. Part of the inevitable end of her college career is playing her last home game. Paige did just that, and UConn head coach Geno Auriemma had nothing but positive words for their star player.
In a post-game interview, head coach Geno Auriemma talked about how Paige Bueckers has been “rewarded” for all his efforts and hard work.
“I think Paige was rewarded for all the work she’s put in since she’s been here and how much she loves the game,” Auriemma told reporters. “I’ve not met anybody who works harder, loves the game more, spends more time in the gym. So her time in front of Connecticut fans ended exactly the way it’s supposed to end, and I’m really happy for her.”
“I think Paige was rewarded for all the work she’s put in since she’s been here and how much she loves the game”@ChelseaSherrod talked with Geno Auriemma following UConn advancing to the Sweet Sixteen of the NCAA Tournament: pic.twitter.com/agE5WmvkSV
— UConn on SNY (@SNYUConn) March 25, 2025
A separate instance also went viral, which showed Auriemma getting emotional over Bueckers. In a video showing the end of the press conference, Paige stood up and exited the area. The camera view slowly tilted to Geno Auriemma, who was caught on camera looking in Paige’s direction, seemingly on the verge of tears.
The scene touched the hearts of fans, as it showed the depth of the relationship between the coach and the star player and how Auriemma values the young star.
Paige Bueckers Dominates in Last Home Court Game
The UConn Huskies secured a dominant 91-57 victory over South Dakota State in the second round of the NCAA Tournament, advancing to their 31st consecutive Sweet Sixteen. Despite a slow start, UConn’s offense, led by Paige Bueckers, found its rhythm and outscored the Jackrabbits 70-39 over the final 28 minutes.
Bueckers delivered an extraordinary performance, tying her career-high with 34 points on 14-of-21 shooting, along with four steals, four assists, and three rebounds. Her efforts were pivotal in turning the tide of the game, as she scored 21 points in the first half and made eight consecutive shots at one point.
The Huskies now move on to the regionals in Spokane, Washington, where they will face Oklahoma in the Sweet Sixteen.
The Huskies’ victory over South Dakota was extra special for Paige Bueckers, as the game served as her final home-court game for this season, and possibly her college career as well, earning her a standing ovation from the crowd. She has long been rumored and expected to be the first overall pick for the 2025 WNBA Draft.
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